Bontnewydd bypass a step closer after announcement

Apr 11 2008 By Alex Hickey

THE proposed Caernarfon/Bontnewydd bypass has taken a major step on the road to becoming reality following an announcement in Cardiff today (Friday).

The Welsh Assembly Government will appoint consultants to consider a bypass route to ease the chronic congestion that has afflicted the road - the only main access way into the Pen Llyn and southern Gwynedd - for the best part of 20 years.

A recent survey conducted by the Assembly predicted "gridlock" on the road by 2013 unless a bypass was built.

The news that an alternative route is finally on the drawing board was welcomed by Plaid Deputy First Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones.

According to Mr Jones, who is also the Assembly Transport and Economic Development Minister, a bypass would improve north-south links, give a boost to the local economy, and, at the same time, alleviate congestion in Bontnewydd and other villages in the Llanwnda ward.

He added: "As you know, a number of schemes have been proposed and I will be in a position to give further details in due course.

"However, I am pleased to say that the Caernarfon/Bontnewydd bypass is now an operational plan. We will be appointing consultants in the summer who will consider the possible routes for that road."